Inspiring Change In Skies: Are We Closing Gender Gap In Indian Aviation?

India's civil aviation regulator is formulating a framework to encourage more women to join the aviation sector. Although the domestic sector boasts among the highest number of women pilots globally, the gender disparity is still alarmingly stark. At a packed event filled with women from all segments of the aviation industry from pilots to airport ground staff, Director General of Civil Aviation Vikram Dev Dutt said his agency is working on a plan to address gender disparities and foster inclusivity in the aviation sector, as well as challenges faced by women staffers.

Gender Equality In Indian Aviation Is Achievable 

“This introspection has led to ongoing thought processes, with plans to unveil a comprehensive framework early next year that transcends mere paperwork and official circulars," Vikram Dev Dutt said. Neither the introspection nor the thought process has been developed overnight. It has taken years to take form in the minds of our bureaucrats. Among other influences behind the recent move of the aviation regulator, leading the Women in Aviation India Chapter, I have been tirelessly pushing for gender equality in aviation industry jobs – whether they are inflight, technical, ground or mechanical.

With 15% of women pilots in the domestic sector and the rising percentage of women in aviation and hospitality, there is a greater need to support education and training for women aspiring to enter the industry amid India’s ascent as a major global aviation market.

Inspiring Change In The Sky

It was back in the year 1972 that I entered the business industry. Overcoming every challenge, I worked hard together with my husband to build Bird Group, which today is one of India’s biggest conglomerates and pioneers of the travel, IT, aviation, and hospitality industries.

On one occasion in 2015, I met a representative of the American organization, Women in Aviation International. Inspired by their programs and mission, the idea of creating an Indian chapter took shape. Women in Aviation India was formed on a winter afternoon on December 7th, 2015, on International Civil Aviation Day, when I invited a group of 15 like-minded friends from the aviation industry. Over lunch and a freewheeling conversation about the future of aviation and the role of women in its growth, the India chapter took birth. 

Paving The Way For Gender Equality

What are the future goals? Well, India already has the highest percentage of women pilots in the world. We wish to achieve a 50% equity someday. Ruminating over from the last Republic Day celebrations, I observed that the impressive and unparalleled recognition of women and the roles they are playing reinforces a fact that women truly are a force to reckon with – Shakti indeed! 

Name any field and women are leading at the frontlines. The day is not far when the aviation industry will offer equity and not just equality to women. The day when women will break the glass ceiling, earn a seat on the table and have an undisputed presence in boardrooms and corridors of power. Through initiatives like Girls in Aviation Day and a steadfast focus on education and training, I aim to pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse aviation industry. 

Authored by Radha Bhatia, President, Women In Aviation India Chapter